You've received a tenant application, and your agent has run them through a screening company. Credit check, background check, reference check—all completed, all good. Should you approve the tenancy? Not so fast.

The rental market remains active in May 2026, but conditions are changing. Demand is still strong, rent growth has eased, and tenant expectations are rising. Here is what landlords should be thinking about now.

3 out of 10 London landlords are currently negotiating tenancy renewals without realising these rules also changed on 1 May 2026. All tenancies are now periodic, so renewals no longer exist! Rent increases need to be handled via serving an official notice and following a process. Don't make a £7,000 Mistake.

The rental market continues to shift, with new rules, rising rents and affordability pressures all shaping landlord decisions. July is a good time to review your property and your plans.